GNU General Public License

Definition

The GNU General Public License (GPL) is a widely used free software license that guarantees end users the freedom to run, study, share, and modify the software. It is a cornerstone of the open-source movement, promoting the idea that software should be freely available for use and improvement by anyone. This license requires that any modified versions of the software also be distributed under the same GPL terms, ensuring that the same freedoms are preserved for future users.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The GNU GPL was first released by Richard Stallman in 1989, and it has since undergone several revisions, with GPLv3 being released in 2007.
2. One of the main principles of the GPL is that it aims to prevent proprietary modifications to software, ensuring that everyone has access to the same rights as the original users.
3. Software licensed under the GPL can be freely distributed and modified, but any derivative works must also be licensed under the GPL, promoting an ecosystem of sharing and collaboration.
4. The GPL is compatible with other licenses in certain cases, allowing developers to combine GPL software with code from different licenses under specific conditions.
5. Many well-known projects, such as the Linux kernel and GNU utilities, are licensed under the GPL, highlighting its importance in the open-source community.

Review Questions

• How does the GNU General Public License promote collaboration among developers in the open-source community?
  • The GNU General Public License fosters collaboration by allowing developers to freely share, modify, and distribute software. This ensures that any improvements made by individuals or teams can be integrated back into the original project. By requiring that derivative works remain under the same GPL license, it creates a culture of openness and encourages collective enhancement of software, ultimately benefiting all users.
• In what ways does copyleft within the GNU General Public License differ from traditional copyright laws?
  • Copyleft within the GNU General Public License differs from traditional copyright laws by allowing for redistribution and modification while imposing certain conditions. Unlike standard copyright, which typically restricts usage and sharing, copyleft requires that any modified versions of the software also be distributed under the same GPL terms. This approach ensures that freedom to use and modify remains intact for all future users, contrasting sharply with restrictive copyright practices.
• Evaluate the impact of the GNU General Public License on commercial software development and its relationship with proprietary software.
  • The impact of the GNU General Public License on commercial software development is significant as it challenges traditional proprietary models by advocating for user freedoms. While companies can use GPL-licensed software in their products, they must comply with its requirements if they distribute those products. This has led some businesses to adopt open-source strategies or dual licensing models where they offer both proprietary and GPL versions. The relationship between GPL and proprietary software is complex, as it forces developers to reconsider their licensing choices while highlighting a growing market for open-source solutions.

Related terms

Open Source: A type of software licensing where the source code is made available to the public for use, modification, and distribution.

Copyleft: A licensing practice that allows derivative works but requires them to maintain the same licensing terms as the original work.

Free Software Foundation: An organization founded by Richard Stallman to promote computer user freedom and defend the rights of all free software users.